A mastectomy is performed to treat or prevent breast cancer, by surgically removing one or both breasts. For patients undergoing a mastectomy, a lumpectomy may be considered first as a treatment option. A lumpectomy is the surgical removal of breast tissue that contains the tumor and conserves the remainder of the breast, and is normally followed up with radiation therapy. This may not be an option for all patients, which is why many choose to undergo a mastectomy.

A mastectomy, is the surgical removal of one breast which is referred to as a unilateral mastectomy or both breasts, which is referred to as a bilateral mastectomy. With the advancement of modern techniques, the breast skin can be preserved which can help if undergoing breast reconstruction surgery. Many patients who undergo a mastectomy may also have a breast reconstruction surgery at the same time, whilst others may wait until after the surgery to undergo reconstruction. Patients who choose to have breast reconstruction surgery at the same time, will normally need to stay in hospital slightly longer than if undergoing the mastectomy without reconstruction. Patients who have a genetic disposition to having cancer, usually those who have a family history of breast cancer, may choose to undergo a mastectomy as a preventive measure to decrease the risk.

Recommended for Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)/non-invasive breast cancer Early-stage breast cancer Locally advanced breast cancer Inflammatory breast cancer Paget's disease of the breast or locally recurrent breast cancer. Elective mastectomy chosen by patient as a preventive measure if they are currently cancer-free, but at high risk of developing the disease Time requirements Number of days in hospital 1 - 3 days . Occasionally a mastectomy can be performed as an outpatient procedure. Average length of stay abroad 1 - 2 weeks.

Patients will need at least one follow up appointment after surgery to have the surgical drains removed. A mastectomy is performed when a tumour is found in the breast or as a preventive measure against breast cancer. Time requirements Number of days in hospital 1 - 3 days . Occasionally a mastectomy can be performed as an outpatient procedure. Average length of stay abroad 1 - 2 weeks. Patients will need at least one follow up appointment after surgery to have the surgical drains removed. Time requirements Number of days in hospital 1 - 3 days . Occasionally a mastectomy can be performed as an outpatient procedure. Average length of stay abroad 1 - 2 weeks. Patients will need at least one follow up appointment after surgery to have the surgical drains removed. A mastectomy is performed when a tumour is found in the breast or as a preventive measure against breast cancer.,

Before the surgery, patients should discuss the surgical options and decide if they want to have breast reconstruction following the procedure, so that the surgeon can plan accordingly.

One option may be to have breast reconstruction done immediately after the mastectomy, while anesthetized, although this is not an option for all patients. Patients with complex conditions may benefit from seeking a second opinion before beginning a treatment plan.

A second opinion means that another doctor, usually an expert with a lot of experience, will review the patient's medical history, symptoms, scans, test results, and other important information, in order to provide a diagnosis and treatment plan. 

Depending on the case, the surgeon may remove the full breast including the skin by creating an incision around the breast. If it is possible, a skin-sparing surgery can be performed, where the nipple is removed but other skin is preserved, and in some cases it is possible to preserve the nipple. Sometimes, the surgeon may insert a tissue expander, to keep the skin stretched in preparation for breast reconstruction surgery.

The lymph nodes in the armpit may also be removed. Depending on each patient, the breast reconstruction surgery may performed at the same time of the mastectomy. Anesthesia Usually general anesthetic. Procedure duration The Mastectomy takes 2 to 3 hours. An incision is made and the breast tissue is removed, preserving the skin if required.,

The patient will usually spend some time in the recovery unit where blood pressure and breathing is monitored. Once stable, the patient will have their surgical site dressed and bandaged. Most patients need a serious recovery period after a mastectomy, and should plan to spend several weeks recuperating. Most patients will need to take around 2 to 4 weeks off work.

Possible discomfort Some discomfort is unavoidable, and patients will be given a set of exercises to keep their arm and shoulders flexible and aid recovery. In general patients should expect fatigue, pain and discomfort for at least the first week after the procedure.,